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How to disable JavaScript in Chrome Developer Tools?

javascript
debugging
chrome-devtools
javascript-management
Nikita BarsukovbyNikita Barsukov·Dec 8, 2024
TLDR

Quickly disable JavaScript in Chrome:

  1. Open DevTools with F12 or Ctrl+Shift+I/ Cmd+Option+I.
  2. Open the Command Menu with Ctrl+Shift+P/ Cmd+Shift+P.
  3. Type Disable JavaScript, select it, and press Enter.

Just use the Command Menu and refresh the page to see the effects.

Permanently manage JavaScript for specific sites:

  1. Open chrome://settings/.
  2. Go to Site Settings under Privacy and security.
  3. Find JavaScript in the Content section.
  4. Block or allow JavaScript for specific sites.

Advanced features for power users

Chrome DevTools comes with advanced features that can supercharge your development:

Chrome DevTools Protocol commands

Chrome DevTools Protocol provides commands for script execution. To access:

  • Visit chrome://inspect.
  • Use the Emulation.setScriptExecutionDisabled method to control script execution.

Handy Extensions for JavaScript Management

Google Web Store offers useful extensions for handling JavaScript:

  • "Quick Javascript Switcher" — Toggle JavaScript on and off directly.
  • "JavaScript and CSS Code Beautifier" — Beautify your scripts for easier debugging.

Keyboard Shortcuts: Navigate Like a Pro

Use these keyboard shortcuts to disable or enable JavaScript:

  • Mac: Command + Shift + P
  • Windows/Linux: Control + Shift + P

Sam ninja way of script control

Mastering JavaScript control is essential for complex debugging scenarios:

  • You can disable JavaScript on the fly during live debugging.
  • The Sources panel provides options to pause and resume script execution.
  • You can even blackbox scripts that you want to discount during debugging.

JS off/on - understand how it affects

Understanding the implication of JavaScript on web pages will help you become a better debugger:

  • Assess page performance and loading times without any scripts to slow things down.
  • Check how SEO and accessibility stand up without the aid of JavaScript.
  • Test default fallback content and behavior for users who've disabled JavaScript on their end.

Life without JavaScript - exploring your browser

Browser features and extensions can also help manage script executions:

  • Use Incognito mode for testing in a clean, extension-free environment.
  • Dev-focused browsers or browser profiles can provide more controlled testing surroundings.
  • Experiment with browser flags found on chrome://flags/ for cutting-edge features.